Filipino wireless operator Connectivity Unlimited Resource Enterprise Inc (CURE), a subsidiary of Smart Communications which offers services under the Red Mobile banner, is applying to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for a permit to operate local exchange service (LEC) fixed line services. Whilst CURE does not own any landline-based infrastructure, the permit would allow it to provide fixed-wireless services instead of traditional copper wire based lines. The BusinessMirror writes that CURE has filed an application to install, operate and maintain LEC services, particularly integrated local services, including information and communications technology (ICT), with the NTC. The operator’s filing says it is looking to ‘effectively and efficiently complement and maximise its existing network facilities and improve the sustainability of promoting universal access to telecommunications and ICT services by the consuming public nationwide.’
According to TeleGeography’s GlobalComms Database, in April 2008 Smart Communications, a unit of the country’s dominant fixed line player Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT), purchased 100% of both PH Communications Holdings Corp and Francom Holdings Inc from an investment vehicle led by the country’s former trade secretary Roberto Ongpin, for PHP419.54 million (USD10 million). The two groups owned 96.76% and 3.43% respectively of CURE.